Trendivox: The Cleveland Browns are making a strong statement in the AFC North, and Deshaun Watson has become a major part of their recent turnaround.
Cleveland defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers 27-24 on Thursday night, improving to 3-1 and moving into sole possession of first place in the AFC North. The game was decided in the final seconds when Browns kicker Andre Szmyt converted a career-long 56-yard field goal with 10 seconds remaining.
Watson Delivers Another Late-Game Drive
Watson once again showed his ability to perform when the game was on the line.
After Pittsburgh tied the score at 24-24 late in the fourth quarter, Watson quickly moved Cleveland down the field. He completed four consecutive passes during the drive and put the Browns in position for Szmyt's long field-goal attempt.
Szmyt made no mistake, giving Cleveland the lead with only seconds remaining.
The Steelers still had one final opportunity. However, safety Grant Delpit intercepted Aaron Rodgers' deep desperation pass, officially securing the Browns' victory.
Browns Start Fast, Then Survive Steelers Comeback
Cleveland controlled much of the first half. The Browns scored 21 points in the second quarter and entered halftime with a 21-10 advantage.
Watson finished the game with 268 passing yards, one passing touchdown and one interception, while also contributing 22 rushing yards.
The second half was much more difficult for Cleveland.
Watson lost a fumble after being hit by T.J. Watt and later threw an interception after a pass was tipped. Pittsburgh took advantage of the mistakes and gradually erased the Browns' lead.
Aaron Rodgers then connected with Pat Freiermuth for a touchdown before converting a two-point play himself, bringing the Steelers level at 24-24.
But Cleveland had the final answer.
Browns Take Control of the AFC North
The victory gives Cleveland a 3-1 record after four games. The Browns also extended their current winning streak to three games and continued their strong recent home record against Pittsburgh. NFL data shows Cleveland is now 8-1 in its last nine home meetings with the Steelers.
For Watson, the victory continues an impressive stretch of late-game performances. His season totals through four games include a 69.6% completion rate, 855 passing yards, six touchdowns and two interceptions, according to the information reported by ESPN.
The Browns will now turn their attention toward the New York Jets in Week 5. Cleveland's next game is scheduled for October 11.
What This Win Means
The Browns' victory was more than just another regular-season win. Cleveland showed that it can build an early lead, survive a major comeback and still execute when the pressure is highest.
With Watson producing in key moments and the defense making the final play, Cleveland has quickly moved from a 1-0? [correction: 0-1] opening-week loss to a 3-1 record and the top spot in the AFC North.
The season is still young, but the Browns have certainly made the AFC North race more interesting.
Source: ESPN
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